Delivering Service Beyond Expectations

It's no secret that starting a virtual assistant business can be much more challenging than you ever imagined! Now that you have put your plan into action, what is the best way to ensure the success of your business? To condense it to a single statement, it is to strive to consistently exceed the expectations of your clients.

You may be thinking there is nothing simple sounding about that at all! However, virtual assistants are heavily relied upon by their clients, and this responsibility should be taken with all sincerity. You will find that if you strive to not only live up to your clients' expectations, but go that extra mile to demonstrate that your services are an outstanding value to them, you will be rewarded with a loyal clientele.

If you are wondering how you can really "wow" your clients with your service, the answers may be simpler than you think. Here are some suggestions that your clients are sure to appreciate:

Understand your project. Although you may be wondering why this will help you exceed your client's expectations, realize that you can't even meet them unless you have a full understanding of the task at hand. If anything is the slightest bit unclear, ask questions. Many virtual assistants worry that asking questions may make them seem unqualified, but just the opposite is true. Your client will appreciate that you care to do it right the first time.

Beat that deadline! Yes, whenever possible, make it a practice to deliver the completed project or assignment at least one business day early. As deadlines loom closer, new clients especially may become nervous about whether you will deliver on time. For many, it will be their first time working with someone in a virtual capacity. Ease their concerns by buckling down and producing a well-done, professional work product (and please remember to double check) ahead of schedule.

Take a personal interest in your client's business. If you have a new client that is in a business that you are unfamiliar with, spend a little time on your own to research it and gain a basic understanding of how they operate. As a virtual assistant, you don't look good until you make your client look good. How will you ever accomplish that if you don't understand your client's business? Surely, they will be impressed by your efforts.

Remember that when the project is done, you've only just begun! After completing a project or assignment on time (or, better yet, a day or two early!), touch base with your client to thank them for their business and ensure that they are satisfied with your work. While a phone call is more personal than email, any type of communication will be appreciated by your client. This probably goes without saying, but if your client is unsatisfied with your work, take it upon yourself to do everything in your power to make it right.

Of course, it isn't possible to list every strategy for exceeding your clients' expectations. There are many things you can do to show your clients that their decision to find a virtual assistant was a wise one. The most important aspect of delivering exceptional service is to show that you genuinely care. Keep in mind that it's the little things that can make a big difference!